It is a matter of time before Kyle Muller makes his debut with the Oakland A’s. That time could come sooner than later.
According to Martin Gallegos’ most recent mailbag, A’s manager David Forst said that Muller is expected to begin the 2023 season as part of the A’s rotation. Depending on injuries and performance in spring training, the A’s rotation could be set heading to camp.
Kyle Muller getting clean slate with Oakland A’s
The A’s are hoping that a fresh start and knowing he will get his chances can make a difference. Muller has yet to find sustained success at the major league level, having posted a 5.14 ERA and a 1.365 WHiP over his 49 innings, striking out 49 batters with 28 walks. However, he has not had much of a chance to prove himself as those 49 innings have come over parts of the past two seasons.
He has been much better in Triple-A. Muller has posted a 3.40 ERA and a 1.246 WHiP in his 214.1 innings at the highest level of the minors, striking out 252 batters with 82 walks. That success gives the A’s reason to hope that he can become a solid part of their rotation and potentially a piece of their future core.
It is certainly possible that happens. Muller is just 25 years old and has the type of arsenal that could lead to success. His fastball sits in the mid 90s with excellent spin rates and plays well high in the zone. He also uses a slider and curve that are above average offerings, although he will lose his feel for the pitches and battle his command at times. In those cases, he also has a solid changeup, but that is definitely the furthest down the pecking order.
If so, the A’s could suddenly find themselves with a solid rotation. Paul Blackburn and Cole Irvin showed that they can be viable major league options last season. Ken Waldichuk is their top pitching prospect and should crack the Opening Day rotation. JP Sears has all the makings of a solid back of the rotation arm. If Muller can live up to his potential, the A’s rotation could be set for years to come.
The Oakland A’s are hoping that Kyle Muller can be a key piece in the rotation. His time may come as soon as Opening Day this season.